FAQ Work and Travel with the Youth Mobility Agreement
Do I have to speak German in order to apply for a YMA visa?
No. German language skills are not required if you apply for a YMA visa. There are many people who speak English in Germany, so you will definitely find your way around. We strongly suggest that you learn a little German before you go or take a German class after your arrival in as this may help you to get settled. Your chances to find a job are also higher if you speak the language. As with any foreign language, you will soon get more confident due to hands-on experience and everyday practise.
What does it cost to participate in the Canadian-German Youth Mobility Program?
There is no cost for the participation in the program. The visa and work permit are issued free of charge. Please note, however, that you need to be able to support yourself after your arrival in Germany. There is no government funding for your means of subsistence. Several individual agencies offer orientation classes and help you to organise your stay for a reasonable program fee.
How long do I have to wait for my free visa and work permit?
If your application has been submitted with all the relevant documents, the visa office needs about one week to process your application.
Can I take courses at a language school or a German university?
The YMA visa gives you the right to participate in German languages classes in Germany. To find out if your YMA visa allows you to enrol in a German university, you would have to contact the respective university directly. The YMA visa does not include fee free participation.
Can I take on any work I want?
Yes, but not self-employed und not Au-pair jobs.
Can I change my employer once I arrive in Germany?
Yes. You may change your employer. The YMA basically gives you the opportunity to study, work and travel in Germany for up to twelve months at your convenience.
Do I have to pay taxes?
Whether or not you will have to pay taxes depends on the type of work you chose and your income. Please talk to your future employer about this.
What about my possibilities to discover Europe through YMA?
As a Canadian citizen, you can visit any European country for up to three months without having to apply for a visa. Low cost airlines and trains link almost every city in Germany to many exciting places all over Europe. If you wish to work in another European country however, you would need a work permit granted by this country. The YMA work permit is only valid for Germany.
Can I go home for the holidays or in the case of an emergency without losing my status?
Yes, of course. Your visa will be issued for multiple entries into Germany so you are able to come and go as you like.
Can I stay longer than a year?
The Canadian-German Agreement does not allow you to stay longer than twelve months on one term. Note, that as a Canadian citizen, you could be granted another work permit by the competent German authorities if you fulfil the requirements.
How many times can I participate?
The YMA allows you to participate under different categories, so you may have the chance to participate twice.
Do I have to get in contact with anybody after I arrive in Germany?
Your YMA visa and work permit are valid for a whole year to make sure you have to go through minimal paperwork only. Please be advised that you are required to register as a resident ("Anmeldung") with the municipal authorities if you stay longer than three months in one place.
I am not yet 18 years old- can I already apply for a YMA visa?
Yes, you may apply for the YMA visa if you are not yet 18 years old. Please note, that for legal reasons, the visa will not be issued prior to your 18th birthday
I will turn soon 35 - can I still apply for a YMA visa?
The Youth Mobility Agreement stipulates that you have to be 35 years or younger when you submit your application to the Consulate. So please make sure you apply before your 36th birthday. Please note that you can apply for a visa only three months in advance prior to your departure.
